Tropical Getaways: LUX* South Ari Atoll

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Set over a beautiful lagoon, LUX* South Ari Atoll (formerly LUX* Maldives) is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. In fact, the hotel has its own dive center. It is also one of the best places in the Maldives for whale shark spotting. The central idea behind the luxury service at the resort is spontaneity: finding an ice cream cart, a coconut stand, secret bar, hidden goodies in the gardens.

Empty white-sand beaches

The island of Dhidhoofinolhu is covered with them. On top of that, the resort has built secret bars, al fresco cinemas, musical performances and other features all around, which means that you will receive five star service in this amazing setting. From secluded picnics for honeymooners to sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling just off the beach, this island paradise is a perfect getaway for sun worshipers and ocean enthusiasts.

Beach and Water Villas

Choose from Beach several different junior suite, pavilion and villa layouts, from stylish beach accommodations to incredible overwater villas. The 38 Prestige Water Villas measure 98 square meters in size, are set over the lagoon and offer direct access to the water. These villas are a fantastic choice for couples and honeymooners.

Beach Pool Villas include 116 square meters of living space, decorated with wood accents and sandy tones. The private terrace is the perfect spot for relaxing, reading and napping. The en suite bathroom opens out to a private garden, bringing the stunning nature indoors. The sunken swimming pool and sun loungers invite you to relax and unwind on your vacation.

LUX* Villa is the largest, measuring 360 square meters, with amazing lagoon and island views. The infinity pool seems to merge with the blue of the water and the glass floor in the living room lets you watch tropical fish swimming under your feet. The villa can accommodate 4 guests and includes a 24-hour personal butler.

Best villa for families

Designed especially with families in mind, the Family Water Villas are built on stilts over the lagoon, complete with a private terrace, a two bedroom layout and quick access to the lagoon. There are only three of these family villas, so if you are planning a trip during the busy holiday season, be sure to book well ahead of time.

Children ages 3 to 12 can explore the island through supervised activities offered by Play, the children’s program. Activities include art classes, treasure hunts, tennis, ocean sports and more.

Teenagers can be demanding travelers and with that in mind, the resort has created a complimentary teens' club for guests 12 and 17 which offers activities such as dance, language classes, beach sports, adventure trips and more.

Spa and Fitness

Few guests leave the resort without a visit to this awesome island spa which customizes treatments and other experiences to best fit your need. In addition to massages, facials and scrubs, you will have access to fitness classes, yoga and nutrition consultations.
The spa has 11 garden treatment rooms, each with a private patio and garden, 4 amazing overwater treatment rooms, sauna, hamam, whirlpool and two pools.

Whale shark watching trips

The whale shark watching day trip is a must for anyone interested in the ocean. The tour will take you to the southern tip of the South Ari, a place where you can observe these amazing animals during their annual migration. The tour includes a presentation, snorkeling, lunch on a nearby island and meeting with locals who will tell their own stories.

7 Restaurants, 6 Bars and a Nightclub

Your palate won’t be bored, you can be sure of that. There are seven restaurants at the resort, serving Maldivian, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Italian cuisine. Add to that 6 bars and secluded picnics, and you don’t have to dine in the same place twice.
Musik nightclub plays eclectic mix of rock, salsa and techno music that will invite you to dance under the stars all night long.

5-Star PADI IDC Dive Centre

The dive center offers a full range of classes, equipment and specialty courses led by top instructors. If this is your honeymoon and you’ve always wanted to get a scuba certification, this is your chance – there are few better places in the world to do it.

You will have access to 37 of the top dive sites in the Maldives where you will be able to observe manta rays, tuna and colorful tropical fish. Occasionally green turtle will float slowly past you. There are dive sites if you are just starting out, and spots for experienced and advanced divers. Two wreck sites and night diving are within a boat ride from the resort. Two dives are offered per day.

Watersports

There is an array of watersports to choose from on the island, including complimentary snorkeling and kayaking and pedal boats. Private catamaran trips and secluded island picnics are popular for romantic proposals and anniversary celebrations.
Once you’ve done exploring the island, sit back and relax next to the two outdoor pools, sipping a cool tropical drink.

All-inclusive Packages

Nightly rate includes three meals daily, afternoon tea, drinks yoga, sauna, many watersports, land activities and entertainment. Rates start at $385 USD per night. One child under 2 years stays free of charge when using existing beds. One older child or adult is charged USD 114 per person per night in an extra bed.

Consider booking the all-inclusive Lux* it up package so that you won’t have to worry about paying for each meal and most activities. The rate includes massages, whale shark safari, breakfast and other VIP amenities. Rates start at $820 USD per person per stay (in addition to the nightly room rate).
The resort is a 25-minute flight by seaplane from the capital Male. The island is 2 km long and 400 m wide.